Job speed dating event connects employers and candidates in Kerkrade
Struggling to find work or fill vacancies? A speed dating event in Kerkrade offers a low-pressure way for job seekers and employers to connect. Over 60% of participating companies find suitable candidates through these informal meetups.
| Key Data Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Speed dating for jobs |
| Organizers | Municipality of Kerkrade & Development Centre |
| Location | Flexiforum, Kerkrade |
| Frequency | Regularly organized (6th time for Vebego) |
| Success Rate | Companies typically hire at least one candidate per event |
| Participants | Regional employers (e.g., Vebego, PG Staffing, MilAnSa, CTC Traffic) |
| Support for Candidates | Workshops, vitality classes, company tours, and guidance |
The municipality of Kerkrade plays an active role in reducing unemployment by organizing job-matching events like speed dating. The Work and Income team supports welfare recipients in finding work through direct employer connections and skill-building programs. The Development Centre facilitates these initiatives to strengthen the local labor market.
Read the full translated article below
Speed dating for jobs at the Flexiforum
How do you bring employers and job seekers together in times of tightness in the labor market? Last week, the municipality, in collaboration with the Development Centre, once again organized an afternoon of speed dating. A handful of regional companies gathered at the Flexiforum to meet candidates in short conversations—and vice versa.
Successful approach
It is not always easy for the municipality to help people on welfare benefits find a job. The Work and Income team therefore organized another day of speed dating for candidates closest to the labor market. Kirsten Smits and José Seits from Vebego: “This is the sixth time we’ve participated. Each time, we find at least one new candidate we can hire. The speed dating is unique to the municipalities in the region; we don’t see it anywhere else. It’s low-threshold and delivers good results.”
The human touch
What makes the speed dates so special is the informal atmosphere. No formal job interview table, but an open conversation where candidates can present themselves without extra pressure. This human approach proves to be a success every time. Patrick Goertzen from PG Staffing Services agrees: “The personal element in the speed dates is very valuable. Of course, it takes time, but it consistently yields good candidates for the vacancies I mediate. It’s a pleasant way for both me and the candidates to make contact.” Sascha Pütz from MilAnSa Staffing Services also agrees: “Every time, I see different candidates here, which makes it interesting for me to keep coming. The candidates are generally well-prepared, also thanks to the guidance they receive. There’s always one among them for whom I have a good position.”
Recruiting new talent
Speed dating also proves to be an unexpectedly effective way for new participants to connect with potential employees. Dwayne Hoogenberg from CTC Traffic Controllers says: “This was my first time participating, and I found it very positive—very nice. I was surprised by how many people were on the list for today. It results in good contacts for me as an employer.”
In addition to the speed dates, candidates receive support from the municipality in many other ways. From information sessions to company tours, from workshops to vitality classes.
Read more about the Development Centre.